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Muna Tengi
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Paul Unongo: Biography, Net Worth, Family, Business, And Political Career
Paul Iyorpuu Unongo, born on September 26, 1935, in Tivland, Benue State, was one of Nigeria’s most respected elder statesmen, political leaders, and intellectuals. Over the course of his life, he became a symbol of leadership, courage, and integrity, particularly in Northern Nigeria. Unongo was a passionate advocate for unity and development, not just within his region but across Nigeria. His political career spanned several decades, and he became widely known for his role in national politics, public service, and his commitment to addressing the challenges facing the Nigerian people.
Unongo’s early life was marked by a strong desire to improve himself through education. He attended Government College, Keffi, which was one of the most prestigious schools in Nigeria at the time. He went on to further his education in Canada, studying psychology and political science at the University of Alberta. His time abroad opened his mind to new ideas about governance, social justice, and nation-building, which he would later apply throughout his political and business career in Nigeria.
Throughout his career, Paul Unongo was known for his articulate and strategic thinking. He held several political and public positions, including serving as a federal minister during Nigeria’s Second Republic. Unongo was also deeply involved in the affairs of Northern Nigeria, playing a leadership role in Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), an influential political and cultural organization that promotes the interests of Northern Nigeria.
He passed away on November 29, 2022, but his legacy as an elder statesman and advocate for unity continues to resonate across Nigeria.
Political Career
Paul Unongo’s political journey began in the 1970s when he became actively involved in Nigerian politics during the Second Republic. His early political inclinations were shaped by his desire to see a unified Nigeria, one that transcended ethnic and religious divisions. Unongo was a member of the Nigerian Peoples Party (NPP), a political platform founded by the legendary Nigerian statesman Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, also known as the "Zik of Africa."
During the Second Republic (1979-1983), Unongo was appointed as the Minister of Power and Steel under the administration of President Shehu Shagari. As a minister, Unongo was responsible for overseeing Nigeria’s energy and industrial sectors, which were crucial to the country’s economic development. His tenure as a minister saw efforts to improve Nigeria’s power infrastructure, although many challenges persisted in the sector. Nonetheless, his time in office was marked by a genuine commitment to addressing the nation’s power and industrialization challenges.
Beyond his role in the Second Republic, Unongo remained a vital voice in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in Northern Nigeria. He became one of the key leaders of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), a group established to protect the political, economic, and cultural interests of the Northern region. Unongo served as the Chairman of the ACF and was known for his ability to navigate complex political issues, both within the North and at the national level.
Throughout his political career, Unongo was a strong advocate for peace and unity. He consistently called for dialogue and understanding between Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and religious groups. He believed in the importance of building bridges, especially between the North and the South, and he often emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize national development over ethnic or sectional interests.
In his later years, Unongo became a trusted elder statesman, offering counsel to younger politicians and leaders across Nigeria. He was frequently called upon to mediate political disputes and offer guidance on national issues. His vast experience and commitment to Nigeria’s unity made him one of the most respected voices in the country’s political scene.
Net Worth
Paul Unongo’s wealth was not a focal point of his public life, as he was more renowned for his contributions to Nigeria’s political and intellectual development. However, like many Nigerian politicians who have held high office, it is likely that Unongo accumulated a significant amount of wealth over the course of his career.
Given his long career in public service, including his tenure as a federal minister and his involvement in various political and business activities, estimates of Unongo’s net worth vary. Although there is no concrete public information regarding his financial status, it is speculated that his net worth could range between $1 million to $5 million. This estimate takes into account his political career, possible business investments, and real estate holdings.
Unlike many Nigerian politicians, Unongo was not known for living a flamboyant lifestyle or accumulating vast wealth. His reputation was built on his intellectual contributions and public service rather than his financial success.
Family Life
Paul Unongo was a devoted family man. He was married to Mrs. Elizabeth Unongo, and together they had children. While his family remained largely out of the public eye, they played an important role in his life and supported his political and social endeavors.
Unongo was a strong advocate for education, both within his family and in his broader community. He believed that education was the key to personal and societal development, and he encouraged his children and others around him to pursue knowledge as a means of achieving success. His family shared his passion for service, and they were known to participate in charitable activities and community development projects.
Throughout his life, Unongo maintained a close connection with his family, and his home in Benue State was often a gathering place for friends, relatives, and political associates. Despite his demanding political career, he ensured that his family remained a central part of his life.
Business Ventures
While Paul Unongo is primarily known for his political and intellectual contributions, he also had interests in business, particularly in the agricultural sector. Coming from Benue State, which is known as the "Food Basket of the Nation," Unongo was involved in agriculture, particularly in large-scale farming. His interest in agriculture aligned with his belief in the importance of economic self-sufficiency and national development.
Unongo was also known to have had interests in the power sector, particularly during and after his time as Minister of Power and Steel. His involvement in efforts to improve Nigeria’s energy infrastructure extended beyond his time in public office, as he remained an advocate for policies that would enhance the country’s power generation and distribution capabilities.
While there is limited public information about the specifics of his business dealings, Unongo’s investments were likely focused on areas that aligned with his broader vision for Nigeria’s development. He believed in the potential of Nigeria’s natural resources and industries to drive economic growth and improve the lives of its citizens.
Legacy
Paul Unongo’s legacy is one of statesmanship, intellectual rigor, and a deep commitment to national unity. As one of Nigeria’s most respected elder statesmen, his contributions to both politics and public life have left an indelible mark on the country’s history.
Unongo’s role in the Arewa Consultative Forum and his advocacy for the interests of Northern Nigeria made him a key figure in regional and national politics. His leadership in the ACF helped to shape the political discourse in the North and gave him a platform to push for policies that would benefit not only his region but the entire country.
Perhaps more than anything, Unongo will be remembered for his steadfast belief in Nigeria’s unity. Throughout his career, he consistently called for dialogue and cooperation between the country’s diverse ethnic and religious groups. He believed that Nigeria’s strength lay in its diversity, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that differences were bridged for the sake of national development.
Even in his later years, Unongo continued to play a role in Nigeria’s political life, offering guidance to younger leaders and helping to resolve political disputes. His wisdom, experience, and dedication to the Nigerian project made him a trusted voice in times of political uncertainty.
Conclusion
Paul Unongo’s life was one of service to his country and his people. From his early days in Tivland to his time as a federal minister and elder statesman, he consistently demonstrated a commitment to public service, intellectual development, and national unity. His contributions to Nigerian politics, particularly through his leadership in the Arewa Consultative Forum and his advocacy for peace and dialogue, will remain a lasting part of Nigeria’s history.
Though his wealth and business dealings were secondary to his public service, Unongo’s legacy as a leader and advocate for Nigeria’s development is his most enduring asset. His life serves as an example of how leadership, integrity, and a commitment to unity can shape a nation’s future for the better.
